Liverpool manager Arne Slot is not just hoping but ‘expecting’ a big performance from expensive summer signing Florian Wirtz when they face old rivals Manchester United in the English Premier League on Sunday.
Wirtz, who was signed for £116 million (approximately Rs 1494 crore), had a tough start to his career at Anfield. However, as the season has worn on, the German international has started to show real glimpses of his talent, and is growing in confidence. Following his sensational injury-time strike in a 3-1 triumph over Crystal Palace, Slot is expecting more of the same from him against the Red Devils.
Arne Slot
“I don’t only hope that, I’m 100 per cent sure he will,” said the Dutch manager when asked if Wirtz can be the difference maker on Sunday. “The development Florian has made throughout his Liverpool career, which has only been 10 months, is for me already very clear and obvious. Ninety-third minute against Crystal Palace, making a duel on the line, winning a throw-in for us and then making a sprint from 40 yards and hitting the ball in the top corner, that is something I was not completely convinced he could do eight months ago. He’s already an elite player now, and he will only become better,” added Slot.
Liverpool are currently in fourth place with 58 points from 34 games. Victory will bring much needed relief to the Reds considering Aston Villa trail them only on goal difference and occupy the final Champions League qualifying spot.
Other Results
Leeds Utd 3-1 BurnleyBrentford 3-0 West HamWolves 1-1 SunderlandNewcastle 3-1 Brighton
EightNo. of goal contributions (goals + assists) for Florian Wirtz in 30 EPL games so far this season
FiveNo of times Liverpool have beaten Man Utd in their last 10 EPL meetings
